Sound familiar? It follows the same journey of the Twelve Steps, a powerful modern version of biblical discipleship, in my humble opinion. Healed and transformed by life in Christ, Barnabas went out to help others and share the good news of God’s saving grace—just as we are called when healed of our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments as part of Step 12.

“The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power” ought to be the words and heartfelt belief of everyone who experiences the healing power of the Twelve Steps of recovery (Psalm 98:1). There is an old saying in recovery that if you don’t give it away you can’t keep it. How many of us know people, even ourselves, who have relapsed because we stopped carrying to others the good news of recovery that saves people from bondage and slavery to addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments? Therefore, let us pray today that we don’t rest on our laurels and become complacent in our faith and recovery journeys.

Reflection Questions

• Who are the disciples and fellows in recovery who “12-stepped” you into recovery, helping you to find hope and freedom from your addictions, compulsions, or unhealthy attachments?
• How are you giving back and sharing that same hope and freedom in accordance with Step 12? How can you do so today?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 11:21B-26; 13:1-3
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3AB, 3CD-4, 5-6
Gospel: Matthew 5:13-16

Reflection by Marty T.